As we plan for Future Farms we must also plan for Future Farmers! Raleigh City Farm’s Internship program is a key strategic initiative that advances its mission and vision and upholds its core values.
This year we have been strengthening our commitment to growing the next generation of farmers through our internship program. In 2024, we will have hosted 10 interns over three growing seasons for a total of over 3600 hours of in-the-field training. We know our Internship program is valuable experience to the future of those that participate as past interns share their successes with us. The connection with these interns is more than a working relationship as we strive to continue to support, mentor and stay connected with our budding team members after they leave us.
Beginning in Fall of 2021 I advanced from Intern, to Assistant Farm Manager to Farm Manager Apprentice in partnership with The Center for Environmental Farming Systems. Apprentices complete more than 2,500 hours of hands-on training as paid employees of a registered farm over the course of at least two growing seasons. During this time, they are supported in at least 185 hours of related instruction through approved courses, conferences, and learning opportunities.
Farm Manager Maria is a cherished mentor and I am grateful to have walked this journey with her. Our collective knowledge and ability to teach in a variety of ways has proven beneficial to evolution of the farm. I look forward to growing healthy soil and the next generations of farmers with her and Raleigh City Farm. Please consider donating to help support our commitment to Future Farmers!
